CCSS.Math.Content.7.EE.A.1
The standard
Apply properties of operations as strategies to add, subtract, factor, and expand linear expressions with rational coefficients.
Common Core State Standards for Mathematics · Expressions and Equations
What this standard means
Students need to rewrite linear expressions without changing their value. They should combine like terms, use the distributive property to expand, factor out a common factor, and handle fractions, decimals, and negative numbers correctly.
Mastery looks like choosing a useful form for the job, then explaining why it is equivalent. Common trouble spots are sign errors, treating unlike terms as like terms, distributing only to the first term, and getting stuck when coefficients are rational numbers.
Ways to teach it
- Give pairs algebra tiles and cards like 3(x + 2) and 3x + 6, then have them build and match equivalent expressions.
- Ask students to explain which form is more useful, 0.5(8x + 12) or 4x + 6, and why.
- Use four exit tickets with one expand, one factor, one combine-like-terms problem, and one error to correct.
- Show a phone plan cost expression with an activation fee and monthly charge, then rewrite it to compare two pricing forms.
Plan a lesson for CCSS.Math.Content.7.EE.A.1
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Related standards
- CCSS.Math.Content.3.OA.B.5
Apply properties of operations as strategies to multiply and divide.
- CCSS.Math.Content.7.NS.A.1d
Apply properties of operations as strategies to add and subtract rational numbers.
- CCSS.Math.Content.7.NS.A.2c
Apply properties of operations as strategies to multiply and divide rational numbers.
- CCSS.Math.Content.1.OA.B.3
Apply properties of operations as strategies to add and subtract.